Hygienic brush

ABSTRACT

An apparatus includes a toothbrush head configured to brush teeth and a body releasably coupled with the toothbrush head. The body includes a vibration component configured to vibrate the toothbrush head, and an element configured to operate the vibration component. The apparatus includes an appliance brush interchangeable with the toothbrush head and configured to brush a dental appliance.

BACKGROUND

This application relates generally to the field of dental hygiene. Morespecifically, this application relates to a toothbrush that includes avibrating element and an additional brush for an orthodontic appliance.

Various devices are available to clean teeth to improve dental hygiene.Conventional toothbrushes include bristles attached to a brush head, andthe brush head attached to a handle, where a user cleans his or herteeth by physically moving the bristles across the teeth in areciprocating motion. More recently, toothbrushes have incorporatedelectrical components to aid in cleaning teeth. Some electricaltoothbrushes include a brush head that incorporates a rotational motioninduced by a motor. Other electrical toothbrushes include a brush headthat incorporates a vibrational motion induced by a motor.

Regardless of the type of brushing method, the bristles of conventionaltoothbrushes and current toothbrushes include bristles designed to cleanteeth. However, many users also have orthodontic appliances (e.g.,aligners, night guards, retainers, etc.) that require cleaning. Someusers attempt to clean the orthodontic appliances with bristles designedto clean teeth, resulting in suboptimal cleaning and excessive wear tothe bristles as the shape of orthodontic appliances generally differfrom the shape of teeth (e.g., teeth generally protrude from the gums,while orthodontic appliances generally include deep recesses to clean).

A toothbrush operable to brush both teeth and orthodontic appliancesusing vibrations is desirable to address the complications associatedwith attempting to clean orthodontic appliances with a conventionaltoothbrush.

SUMMARY

An embodiment relates to an apparatus that includes a toothbrush head, abody, and an appliance brush. The toothbrush head is configured to brushteeth. The body is releasably coupled with the toothbrush head, and thebody comprises a vibration component and an element. The vibrationcomponent is configured to vibrate the toothbrush head. The element isconfigured to operate the vibration component. The appliance brush isinterchangeable with the toothbrush head and configured to brush adental appliance.

Another embodiment relates to a brush system that includes a toothbrushhead, a body, an appliance brush, and a dock. The toothbrush headincludes a bristle, a massager, a scrubber, and a stem. The stem extendsfrom the toothbrush head. The body is releasably coupled with the stemby an extension of the body. The body comprises a vibration componentconfigured to vibrate the toothbrush head, and an element configured tooperate the vibration component. The appliance brush is interchangeablewith the toothbrush head and configured to brush a dental appliance. Thedock is operable to be releasably coupled with the body or thetoothbrush head. The dock comprises a compartment configured to storethe appliance brush when the appliance brush is decoupled from the body.

Another embodiment relates to an electronic brush including an appliancebrush, a body, and a dock. The appliance brush includes a connector, andbristles arranged in a first pattern such that the bristles form aconvex brushing surface. The body is configured to releasably couplewith the appliance brush by the connector or with a toothbrush headcomprising bristles arranged in a second pattern. The body includes avibration component configured to vibrate the appliance brush. The dockis configured to secure the body, and comprises a cavity disposedbetween a cover and a base. The cavity is configured to store theappliance brush when the appliance brush is decoupled form the body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-2 are illustrations of a toothbrush, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an exploded view of the toothbrush of FIGS.1-2.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a portion of the toothbrush of FIGS. 1-2.

FIGS. 5-6 are illustrations of a brush head of the toothbrush of FIGS.1-2.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of the toothbrush of FIGS. 1-2 with anappliance brush attachment, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of the appliance brush of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is block diagram of a cross section of the appliance brush ofFIG. 8 viewed from section A-A.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a cross section of the appliance brush ofFIG. 8 viewed from section B-B.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a cap of the toothbrush of FIGS. 1-2.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a dock, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 13-15 are illustrations of the dock of FIG. 12 coupled with thetoothbrush of FIGS. 1-2, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a base of the dock of FIG. 12, accordingto various embodiments.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a dock according to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplaryembodiments in detail, it should be understood that the presentdisclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in thedescription or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understoodthat the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description onlyand should not be regarded as limiting.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, illustrations of a toothbrush 100 are shown,according to some embodiments. While the term “toothbrush” is used forease of reference throughout this application, it will be appreciatedthat the toothbrush 100 can be any type of hygienic brush, such as abrush for cleaning a dental appliance such as a dental aligner, as willbe explained. The toothbrush 100 includes a brush head 102, a stem 104,a body 106, a handle 108, a cap 110, and a gap 118. The brush head 102is rigidly coupled to the stem 104 and includes bristles 112, massagers114, and a scrubber 116. The scrubber 116 is located opposite thebristles 112 and the massagers 114. The bristles 112, massagers 114, andscrubber 116 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 5-6.While the body 106 and the handle 108 are shown as separate componentsreleasable from one another, in some embodiments, the body 106 and thehandle 108 are one component, which together can be referred to as the“body.”

In some embodiments, the brush head 102 and the stem 104 can be aunitary component. In some embodiments, the brush head 102 and the stem104 can be separate components rigidly coupled. The brush head 102 andthe stem 104 can be manufactured from a plastic material (e.g.,polycarbonate, polyethylene, nylon, or any other type of plasticmaterial suitable for use in the mouth), or a metal material (e.g.,aluminum, anodized aluminum, or any other type of metal materialsuitable for use in the mouth). In some embodiments, the brush head 102and the stem 104 can be manufactured with any suitable process (e.g.,molding, machining, 3-D printing, or any other manufacturing methodsuitable to form the brush head 102 and the stem 104).

The body 106 is releasably coupled to the stem 104. The body 106 isoperable to induce a vibratory motion in the brush head 102. The body106 includes components that extend into the stem 104; therefore, thestem 104 is substantially hollow to receive the components. The body 106includes a button 120 that is electrically connected to a battery (notshown) and to the components within the body 106 that induce a vibratorymotion in the brush head 102. The body 106 and its operation will befurther described with reference to FIG. 3.

The handle 108 is releasably coupled to the body 106 and provides asurface for a user to grip while using the toothbrush 100. The handle108 can be manufactured using any suitable material (e.g., plastic,anodized aluminum, or any other material suitable for use near themouth). The handle 108 is substantially cylindrical, however othersuitable shapes can be implemented. For example, the handle 108 can bein the shape of a hexadecagon. In embodiments where the handle 108 is inthe shape of a hexadecagon, the components to which the handle 108 iscoupled (e.g., the body 106 and the cap 110) can also be in the shape ofa hexadecagon. The handle 108 is also operable to receive the battery;therefore, the handle 108 is at least partially hollow to receive thebattery.

The cap 110 is releasably coupled to the handle 108 (e.g., by a threadedconnection, a snap fit connection, a bayonet connection, a friction fitconnection, or any other suitable releasable connection) and defines aspace in which an appliance brush (not shown) is stored. The cap 110 canbe manufactured using any suitable material (e.g., plastic, anodizedaluminum, or any other material suitable for use near the mouth). Asdescribed, in some embodiments the shape of the cap 110 can beequivalent to the shape of the handle 108. Because the cap 110 providesa space in which the appliance brush is stored, the cap 110 issubstantially hollow.

The gap 118 is a space between the outer diameter of the stem 104 andthe outer diameter of the body 106 that provides clearance to reduce thevibrations of the stem 104 when vibrations are imparted by the brushhead 102. For example, when the brush head 102 is vibrating, the stem104 will also vibrate because the brush head 102 and the stem 104 arerigidly coupled. The gap 118 reduces the amount of structure of the stem104 contacting the body 106, thereby dampening the vibrations in thestem 104, and thereby allowing the brush head 102 to vibrate as desiredto clean teeth.

Referring to FIG. 3, an illustration of an exploded view of thetoothbrush 100 of FIGS. 1-2 is shown. As shown, the body 106 includes ahousing 301, a tip 302, an appliance brush connection 303, an extension304, a stem connection 306, a handle connection 308, a rib 310, and anelectrical connection 324.

The housing 301 is sized and configured to receive a motor (not shown);therefore, the housing 301 is substantially hollow to provide a space toreceive the motor. The motor is in electrical communication with thebutton 120 such that when the user presses the button 120 to turn on thetoothbrush 100, the motor rotates, causing the brush head 102 tovibrate. When the user presses the button 120 to turn off the toothbrush100, the motor stops rotating, causing the brush head 102 to stopvibrating. In some embodiments, the user can select a vibration speed bypressing the button 120 a specific number of times. For example, theuser can press the button 120 once to cause the toothbrush 100 tovibrate at a first speed (e.g., a high speed). The user can press thebutton 120 a second time to cause the toothbrush 100 to vibrate at asecond speed (e.g., a medium speed). The user can press the button 120 athird time to cause the toothbrush 100 to vibrate at a third speed(e.g., a slow speed). The user can press the button 120 a fourth time tocause the toothbrush 100 to stop vibrating. In some embodiments, theuser can select a vibration pattern by pressing the button 120 aspecific number of times. For example, the user can press the button 120once to cause the toothbrush 100 to pulse at a first pulse rate (e.g., ahigh pulse rate). The user can press the button 120 a second time tocause the toothbrush 100 to pulse at a second pulse rate (e.g., a mediumpulse rate). The user can press the button 120 a third time to cause thetoothbrush 100 to pulse at a third pulse rate (e.g., a low pulse rate).The user can press the button 120 a fourth time to cause the toothbrush100 to stop vibrating. In some embodiments, pressing the button 120multiple times can cycle through a combination of vibration speedsand/or pulse speeds.

In some embodiments, the housing 301 is also sized and configured toreceive a sensor (not shown) in communication with the motor and acomputing device (not shown). As used herein, the term “computingdevice” refers to a device including at least one of a circuit, afield-programmable gate array, and a processor and a memory where theprocessor is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory.The sensor is operable to detect the orientation of the toothbrush 100when the motor is rotating and provide orientation information to thecomputing device. The computing device determines if the orientation ofthe toothbrush 100 needs to be modified, and provides feedback to theuser to notify the user. For example, the user may activate thetoothbrush 100 by pressing the button 120 such that the brush head 102vibrates. If the user holds the brush in one orientation for too long(e.g., brushing the same teeth for a prolonged period), the sensornotifies the computing device. The computing device instructs the motorto provide a vibration pulse, causing the motor to rotate faster for ashort period to provide the vibration pulse. The user feels thevibration pulse in his or her mouth, notifying the user that it is timeto switch positions and brush other teeth.

In some embodiments, the sensor is a timer and notifies the computingdevice after a specified period has passed (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute,or any other amount of time). The computing device instructs the motorto provide a vibration pulse as described above to notify the user thatthe specified time has passed, and that the user should brush otherteeth in his or her mouth. In addition, the vibration pulse can notifythe user regarding the amount of time to brush a dental or orthodonticappliance. For example, the user can brush an aligner with an appliancebrush 320. The vibration pulse can notify the user when the aligner, ora part thereof, has been brushed for the appropriate amount of time toclean the aligner (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, or any other amount oftime). For example, the vibration pulse can pulse every 30 seconds tofirst notify the user that they have brushed the interior surface of analigner a sufficient amount of time, and then again to notify the userthat they have brushed the exterior surface of the aligner a sufficientamount of time.

The extension 304 extends from the housing 301 and is sized andconfigured to fit within an opening 322 in the stem 104. The extension304 is also sized and configured to receive a vibration element (notshown) in communication with the motor. In some embodiments, thevibration element is a weight mounted eccentrically to the motor suchthat, when the motor rotates, the weight spins eccentrically, therebycausing vibrations (e.g., an eccentric rotating mass) in the brush head102. In some embodiments, the vibration element is a magnetic massattached to a spring and driven by a coil (e.g., a linear resonantactuator). The vibration element is positioned near the brush head 102such that the vibrational motion is focused near the brush head 102.

The tip 302 extends from the extension 304 and is sized and configuredto be received by the appliance brush 320. The appliance brushconnection 303 is operable to releasably couple with the appliance brush320. The appliance brush connection 303 can be any type of connectionsuitable for components to be securely connected when desired, and to beeasily disconnected when desired. One example of a suitable connectionis a bayonet connection. Another example of a suitable connection is aquick connect fitting. Another example of a suitable connection is athreaded connection. In some embodiments, the appliance brush 320couples directly with the tip 302 (e.g., by a friction fit or press fitconnection) and does not couple with the appliance brush connection 303.The interaction between the tip 302 and the appliance brush 320 will befurther described with reference to FIGS. 7-8.

The stem connection 306 is operable to releasably couple with the stem104. The stem connection 306 can be any type of connection suitable forcomponents to be securely connected when desired, and to be easilydisconnected when desired. One example of a suitable connection is abayonet connection. Another example of a suitable connection is a quickconnect fitting. Another example of a suitable connection is a threadedconnection. In the embodiment where the stem connection 306 is a bayonetconnection, the stem 104 is connected to the body 106 by inserting theextension 304 into the opening 322 until a tab (not shown) within theopening 322 interfaces with the stem connection 306. When the stem 104is seated on the body 106, the stem 104 is rotated such that the tabslides along the stem connection 306 to secure the stem 104 to the body106. In some embodiments, the tab may interface with a rib (not shown)on the body 106 such that the tab passes over the rib during therotation and the rib securely holds the tab in place. In thisorientation, the brush head 102 is longitudinally aligned with thebutton 120. In some embodiments, the user will feel a tactile sensationindicating that the body 106 is properly coupled to the stem 104. Insome embodiments, the user will hear an audible indicator to indicatethat the body 106 is properly coupled to the stem 104. To disconnect thestem 104 from the body 106, the stem 104 is rotated in the oppositedirection to dislodge the tab from the rib, and then the stem 104 can beseparated from the body 106. In some embodiments, the stem 104 couplesto the extension 304 without the stem connection 306 (e.g., by afriction fit or press fit connection).

The handle connection 308 includes a rib 310, and is operable toreleasably couple with the handle 108. The handle connection 308 can beany type of connection suitable for components to be securely connectedwhen desired, and to be easily disconnected when desired. One example ofa suitable connection is a bayonet connection. Another example of asuitable connection is a quick connect fitting. Another example of asuitable connection is a threaded connection. In the embodiment wherethe handle connection 308 is a bayonet connection, the handle 108 isconnected to the body 106 by inserting the body 106 into an opening (notshown) in the handle 108 until a tab (not shown) within the openinginterfaces with the handle connection 308. When the handle 108 is seatedon the body 106, the handle 108 is rotated such that the tab slidesalong the handle connection 308 to secure the handle 108 to the body106. In some embodiments, the tab may interface with the rib 310 on thebody 106 such that the tab passes over the rib 310 during the rotationand the rib 310 securely holds the tab in place. To disconnect thehandle 108 from the body 106, the handle 108 is rotated in the oppositedirection to dislodge the tab from the rib 310, and then the handle 108can be separated from the body 106.

The electrical connection 324 is operable to be electrically coupledwith the battery 312, the motor, and the button 120. The electricalconnection 324 provides an electrical pathway between the battery 312and the motor such that the battery 312 provides power to the motor whenthe user presses the button 120 to turn on the toothbrush 100. Theelectrical connection 324 can be any type of connection (e.g., clips,contacts, etc.) that can transfer power from the battery 312 to themotor.

The battery 312 is operable to provide power to the motor via theelectrical connection 324. The battery 312 is configured to fit withinthe handle 108; therefore, the handle 108 is substantially hollow toaccommodate the battery 312. The battery 312 can be any type of battery(e.g., a AAA battery, a AA battery, a rechargeable battery, or any otherkind of battery) suitable to provide power for a toothbrush.

The handle 108 includes a cap connection 314, a rib 316, and an opening326. The cap connection 314 includes a rib 316, and is operable toreleasably couple with the cap 110. The cap connection 314 can be anytype of connection suitable for components to be securely connected whendesired, and to be easily disconnected when desired. One example of asuitable connection is a bayonet connection. Another example of asuitable connection is a quick connect fitting. Another example of asuitable connection is a threaded connection.

In the embodiment where the cap connection 314 is a bayonet connection,the cap 110 is connected to the handle 108 by inserting the handle 108into an opening (not shown) in the cap 110 until a tab (not shown)within the opening interfaces with the cap connection 314. When thehandle 108 is seated on the cap 110, the cap 110 is rotated such thatthe tab slides along the cap connection 314 to secure the handle 108 tothe cap 110. In some embodiments, the tab may interface with the rib 316on the handle 108 such that the tab passes over the rib 316 during therotation and the rib 316 securely holds the tab in place. To disconnectthe handle 108 from the cap 110, the cap 110 is rotated in the oppositedirection to dislodge the tab from the rib 316, and then the handle 108can be separated from the cap 110. The opening 326 is sized andconfigured to receive an appliance brush 320 such that the appliancebrush 320 can be stored within the toothbrush 100 when the stem 104 iscoupled to the body 106.

The cap 110 can include any number of apertures 318. In someembodiments, the cap 110 includes at least one aperture 318. As shown inFIG. 3, in some embodiments, the cap 110 includes three apertures 318.The aperture 318 is an opening extending through the cap 110 such thatliquid trapped between the cap 110 and the handle 108 (e.g., excessliquid on the appliance brush 320 when stored) drains out of the handle108 and cap 110 through the aperture 318.

To assemble the toothbrush 100, the appliance brush 320 is positionedwithin the opening 326, and the cap 110 is coupled to the handle 108 asdescribed. The battery 312 is inserted into the handle 108, and the body106 is inserted into the handle 108 and coupled to the body 106 asdescribed. The extension 304 is inserted into the opening 322, and thestem 104 is coupled to the body 106 as described. Once assembled, thetoothbrush 100 is ready for use.

Referring to FIG. 4, an illustration of the gap 118 of the toothbrush100 of FIGS. 1-2 is shown. The gap 118 is located between the stem 104and the body 106 and provides a space for the stem 104 to deflect duringoperation of the toothbrush 100. For example, during operation of thetoothbrush 100, the motor causes the brush head 102 to vibrate. As thebrush head 102 vibrates, the stem 104 also vibrates because the brushhead 102 and the stem 104 are rigidly coupled. The vibrations induced inthe brush head 102 and the stem 104 cause the brush head 102 and thestem 104 to move back and forth. As the stem 104 moves back and forth,the size of the gap 118 constantly changes. When the stem 104 moves inone direction, the gap 118 becomes shorter in the direction in which thestem 104 moves and becomes longer opposite the direction in which thestem 104 moves. As such, the gap 118 prevents the stem 104 fromcontacting the housing 301 during operation, thereby preventing thetransmission of a significant portion of the vibrations from the stem104 to the housing 301, thereby dampening the vibrations of the brushhead 102.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, illustrations of a brush head 102 of thetoothbrush 100 of FIGS. 1-2 is shown. The brush head 102 includes thebristles 112, the massagers 114, and the scrubber 116. The bristles 112include at least one tuft 602, and the tuft 602 includes at least onefilament 604. In some embodiments, a plurality of tufts 602 are coupledto the brush head 102 such that the base of the tufts 602 do not moverelative to the brush head 102. The tufts 602 can be coupled to thebrush head 102 using any conventional coupling methods suitable tosecure the tufts 602 to the brush head 102. Examples of coupling methodsinclude injection molding, stapling, adhesive bonding, and any othermethod capable of joining the tufts 602 to the brush head 102.

In some embodiments, the tufts 602 include a plurality of filaments 604.The filament 604 can be manufactured using any material suitable for usein the mouth. Examples of materials for use in the filament 604 include,but are not limited to, nylon, thermoplastic elastomers, polyester,polyethylene, and polystyrene. In some embodiments, the filament 604includes a roughened surface that provides for more efficient cleaningof teeth, and can have a whitening effect on teeth. For example, theroughened surfaced of the filament 604 can remove stains that would notbe removed with a conventional filament, revealing the white enamelunderneath the stains. In some embodiments, the filament 604 includesfluoride such that fluoride is applied to the teeth during brushing. Forexample, the filament 604 can include a hollow portion in which fluorideis deposited and is transferred to the teeth during brushing. In someembodiments, the filament 604 includes a circular cross section. In someembodiments, the filament 604 includes a substantially triangular crosssection. In embodiments in which the filament 604 exhibits asubstantially triangular cross section, the filament 604 can be acomposite that includes different materials at the points of thetriangle. For example, the points of the triangle can be a thermoplasticelastomer while the remaining portion can be nylon. Such embodiments canprovide for more efficient cleaning of teeth.

As shown in FIG. 6, the plurality tufts 602 can be arranged in a patternon the brush head 102. In some embodiments, the plurality of tufts 602can be arranged in groups of two, three, or four tufts 602 across thebrush head 102. In some embodiments, the plurality of tufts 602 arearranged such that the tufts 602 are offset from each other to minimizethe amount of empty space between the tufts 602.

The massagers 114 are operable to massage and clean the gums of a userwhile the user brushes his or her teeth. As shown, the massagers 114 arearranged around the periphery of the brush head 102 and surround thetufts 602. However, in some embodiments the massagers 114 are arrangedin between the tufts 602. The massagers 114 are manufactured from anymaterial suitable for use in the mouth to massage and clean the gums.Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, silicone and rubber.In some embodiments, the massagers 114 are more rigid than the tufts602. In some embodiments, the massagers 114 are less rigid than thetufts 602.

The massagers 114 are manufactured integrally with the brush head 102such that the massagers 114 cannot be removed from the brush head 102.For example, the massagers 114 are molded to the brush head 102 as partof a two-shot molding process in which the brush head 102 is molded withthe first shot of material, and the massagers 114 are molded with thesecond shot of material, where the second shot uses a different materialthan the first shot.

The scrubber 116 is operable to clean the tongue and/or other oralstructures. As shown, the scrubber 116 is arranged on the brush head 102opposite the bristles 112 such that the user must turn the toothbrush100 by 180 degrees to use the scrubber 116 on the same surface that wasbeing brushed with the brush head 102. In some embodiments, the scrubber116 is arranged in other locations on the brush head 102. For example,the scrubber 116 can be located adjacent to the bristles 112 such thatthe user only needs to turn the toothbrush 100 by 90 degrees to use thescrubber 116 on the same surface that was being brushed with the brushhead 102.

The scrubber 116 is manufactured from any material suitable for use inthe mouth to clean the tongue or other oral structures. Suitablematerials include, but are not limited to, silicone and rubber. Thescrubber 116 is manufactured integrally with the brush head 102 suchthat the scrubber 116 cannot be removed from the brush head 102. Forexample, the scrubber 116 is molded to the brush head 102 as part of atwo-shot molding process in which the brush head 102 is molded with thefirst shot of material, and the scrubber 116 is molded with the secondshot of material, where the second shot uses a different material thanthe first shot. The scrubber 116 can be designed such that the scrubber116 is an identifiable shape. For example, the scrubber 116 can includethe logo of the manufacturer or a popular saying.

Referring to FIG. 7, an illustration of the toothbrush 100 of FIGS. 1-2with an appliance brush 320 is shown, according to some embodiments. Theappliance brush 320 is shown to include appliance bristles 702, a base704, and a connector 706. The appliance bristles 702 include tufts andfilaments similar to the tufts 602 and filaments 604 on the brush head102. The appliance bristles 702 are coupled to the base 704 via amolding, stapling, or adhesive process such that the appliance bristles702 cannot be removed from the base 704. The connector 706 extends fromthe base 702 and is substantially hollow to accommodate the tip 302 andthe appliance brush connection 303 from FIG. 3.

To assemble the appliance brush 320 to the toothbrush 100, and withreference to FIGS. 3 and 7, the stem 104 is removed from the body 106 asdescribed. The cap 110 is disconnected from the handle 108, theappliance brush 320 is removed, and the cap 110 is connected to thehandle 108 as described. The tip 302 is inserted into the connector 706until a tab (not shown) in the hollow portion of the connector 706interfaces with the cap connection 314. The appliance brush 320 isrotated to engage the tab with the rib 316 to secure the appliance brush320 to the tip 302. In this configuration, the extension 304 is visibleto the user and not covered by the stem 104. In some embodiments, theuser will feel a tactile sensation indicating that the appliance brush320 is properly coupled to the extension 304. In some embodiments, theuser will hear an audible indicator to indicate that the appliance brush320 is properly coupled to the extension 304.

When the user desires to clean an orthodontic appliance (e.g., analigner configured to reposition a tooth of the user, a night guard, aretainer, dentures, or other orthodontic appliance), the user couplesthe appliance brush 320 as described and turns on the toothbrush 100 bypressing the button 120. The motor rotates, causing the appliance brush320 to vibrate to aid in cleaning the orthodontic appliance. When theorthodontic appliance is clean, the user presses the button 120 to stopthe motor, thereby stopping the vibration. In some embodiments, there isa vibration mode operable to clean an orthodontic appliance (e.g., analigner). For example, a higher or lower vibration speed than one usedfor cleaning teeth may be suitable for cleaning an orthodonticappliance. After connecting the appliance brush 320, the user can pressthe button 120 to cycle through the vibration speeds until reaching thesetting suitable for an orthodontic appliance.

Referring to FIG. 8, an illustration of the appliance brush 320 of FIG.7 is shown. The appliance bristles 702 are composed of tufts 802 thatare arranged around the surface of the base 704. As shown, the base 704has a circular cross section; however, the base 704 can be anycross-sectional shape that can be used in a dental or orthodonticimplement. The tufts 802 can be comprised of different lengths such thatthe tufts 802 create a convex surface for the appliance bristles 702. Insome embodiments, the shape of the appliance bristles 702 can besymmetric (e.g., the shape of the appliance bristles 702 will look thesame regardless of the angle from which the user views the appliancebristles 702). In some embodiments, the shape of the appliance bristles702 can be asymmetric (e.g., the shape of the appliance bristles 702will look different depending on the angle from which the user views theappliance bristles 702). For example, the appliance bristles 702 may bearranged such that the cross-section of the appliance bristles 702 looksdifferent across section A-A than it does across section B-B. The shapeof the appliance bristles 702 across sections A-A and B-B will befurther described with reference to FIGS. 9-10.

Referring to FIGS. 9-10, FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a cross section ofthe appliance brush 320 of FIG. 8 viewed from section A-A, and FIG. 10is a block diagram of a cross section of the appliance brush 320 of FIG.8 viewed from section B-B. As shown in FIG. 9, when viewed from sectionA-A, the appliance bristles 702 extend from a height h at the peripheryof the base 704 to a height H at the center of the base 704, where H isgreater than h. Thus, viewed from section A-A, the appliance bristles702 exhibit a convex shape. The convex shape is useful when cleaning anorthodontic appliance such as an aligner. An aligner includes variouscavities and recesses that correspond to the teeth of the user. Theconvex shape of the appliance bristles 702 allows the appliance bristles702 to reach the bottom of the cavities and recesses to clean thealigner effectively without encountering interference from the walls ofthe aligner.

As shown in FIG. 10, when viewed from section B-B, the appliancebristles 702 reach height H across the entire length of the base 704.Because the view from section B-B differs from the view from sectionA-A, the appliance bristles 702 are not symmetric. This asymmetricconfiguration of the appliance bristles 702 provides for the ability toreach the deepest portions of the cavities and recesses in an aligneralong the entire length of the appliance bristles 702, resulting in moreefficient cleaning than if symmetric bristles are used.

Referring to FIG. 11, an illustration of a cap 110 of the toothbrush 100of FIGS. 1-2 is shown. As described, the cap 110 includes at least oneaperture 318 to provide for drainage of fluid when the appliance brush320 is stored in the cap 110. For example, after using the appliancebrush 320 to clean a night guard, the user rinses the appliance brush320 in water and immediately inserts the appliance brush 320 into thehandle 108 and attaches the cap 110 to the handle 108 to enclose theappliance brush 320 in the toothbrush 100. The bristles may not becompletely dry when the appliance brush 320 is stored in the toothbrush100, therefore water can flow from the appliance brush 320 and out ofthe aperture 318. In some embodiments, the apertures 318 can include aplurality of apertures 318 spaced around the cap 110. The aperture 318can be any shape suitable for drainage (e.g., circular, rectangular,elliptical, or any other shape suitable for drainage).

Referring to FIG. 12, an illustration of a dock 1202 is shown, accordingto some embodiments. The dock 1202 is configured to maintain thetoothbrush 100 in an upright position and to protect the bristles 112when transporting the toothbrush 100. The dock 1202 includes a cover1204, a base 1206, a recess 1208, and a magnetic portion 1210. The cover1204 is releasably coupled to the base 1206. The coupling mechanism canbe any coupling mechanism that provides the ability to connectcomponents securely when desired, and to easily disconnect when desired.Examples of suitable coupling mechanisms include a bayonet connectionand a threaded connection. The cover 1204 and the base 1206 aremanufactured from any material suitable for storing a toothbrush (e.g.,plastic, metal, or any other suitable material). The base 1206 caninclude an attachment mechanism (not shown) opposite the cover 1204 toattach the dock 1202 to a surface. For example, the attachment mechanismcan include a suction device (e.g., a suction cup), a reusable adhesive,a magnet, a friction surface, or any other attachment mechanism suitableto attach the dock 1202 to a surface (e.g., a lateral surface such as acounter top, a vertical surface such as a mirror or wall) and supportthe weight of the toothbrush 100.

The recess 1208 is sized and configured to receive the cap 110 and/orthe handle 108 of the toothbrush 100 such that the toothbrush 100 standsupright when the cap 110 and/or the handle 108 is inserted into therecess 1208. The recess 1208 will be further described with reference toFIGS. 14-15.

The magnetic portion 1210 is sized and configured to receive the handle108 and/or the body 106 of the toothbrush 100 such that the toothbrush100 is magnetically secured to the dock 1202 when the handle 108 and/orthe body 106 contacts the magnetic portion 1210. As shown, the magneticportion 1210 exhibits a curvature. The curvature of the magnetic portion1210 is designed to substantially match the curvature of the handle 108and/or the body 106 to provide for a larger surface area for a suitablemagnetic connection. Accordingly, the shape of the magnetic portion 1210can be modified to match the shape of the handle 108 and/or the body 106should the shape of the handle 108 and/or the body 106 be modified. Themagnetic portion 1210 will be further described with reference to FIGS.13 and 15.

Referring to FIGS. 13-15, illustrations of the dock 1202 of FIG. 12assembled to the toothbrush 100 of FIGS. 1-2 are shown, according tovarious embodiments. As shown in FIG. 15, the magnetic portion 1210extends substantially along the cover 1204, and the recess 1208 extendsdeeper into the cover 1204 than the magnetic portion 1210. Furthermore,the cover 1204 and the base 1206 define an opening 1502 sized andconfigured to receive the stem 104 such that the brush head 102 can becovered when transporting the toothbrush 100. For example, a userdesiring to cover the brush head 102 will remove the cover 1204 from thebase 1206, place the brush head 102 in a designated location within thebase 1206, and attach the cover 1204 to the base 1206 to cover the brushhead 102. The orientation of the brush head 102 in the base 1206 will befurther described with reference to FIG. 16.

To store the toothbrush 100 on a horizontal surface, as shown in FIG.14, the user can place the dock 1202 on the horizontal surface. The usercan attach the dock 1202 to the horizontal surface (e.g., by using thesuction cup attachment), however attachment to the horizontal surface isnot necessary. After using the toothbrush 100, the user places thetoothbrush 100 in the dock 1202 such that the cap 110 extends into therecess 1208. In some embodiments, the recess 1208 is sized to receivethe cap 110 and a portion of the handle 108. The recess 1208 isconfigured to securely hold the toothbrush 100 such that the toothbrush100 remains upright until the user removes the toothbrush 100 from thedock 1202.

To store the toothbrush 100 on a vertical surface, as shown in FIG. 13,the user can use the attachment mechanism on the base 1206 to attach thedock 1202 to the vertical surface. For example, if the attachmentmechanism on the base 1206 is a suction cup, the user pushes the suctioncup against the flat surface such that the suction force maintains thedock 1202 in the vertical position. After using the toothbrush 100, theuser places the toothbrush 100 in the dock 1202 such that the handle108, the body 106, or some combination thereof, is in contact with themagnetic portion 1210. In some embodiments, the material of the handle108 and/or the body 106 is magnetic such that the magnetic portion 1210attracts the handle 108 and/or the body 106. In some embodiments, thehandle 108 and/or the body 106 are not magnetic. In such embodiments,the magnetic portion 1210 is configured to attract the motor in the body106 or the battery 312 in the handle 108 to provide the connection. Themagnetic force between the magnetic portion 1210 and the toothbrush 100is sufficient to maintain the toothbrush 100 in a vertical position andprevent the toothbrush 100 from falling from the dock 1202.

Referring to FIG. 16, an illustration of the base 1206 of the dock 1202of FIG. 12 is shown, according to various embodiments. The base 1206 isconfigured to secure the brush head 102 and includes a bristle wall1602, a brush head wall 1604, and a stem wall 1606. The brush head wall1604 protrudes from the bottom of the base 1206 and extends from theopening 1502. The brush head wall 1604 curves such that the brush headwall 1604 substantially matches the shape of the upper portion of thestem 104 and the brush head 102. The bristle wall 1602 protrudes fromthe bottom of the base 1206 and is shaped to substantially match theshape of the bristles 112. The stem wall 1606 protrudes from the bottomof the base 1206 and extends from the opening 1502. The stem wall 1606is positioned to substantially match the shape of the stem 104. In someembodiments, the stem 104 is tapered such that the stem 104 increases inwidth as the stem 104 extends away from the brush head 102. Accordingly,the stem wall 1606 is shaped such that the distance between the stemwall 1606 and the brush head wall 1604 is larger at the opening 1502than it is deeper into the base 1206.

To store the toothbrush 100 in the dock 1202, the user removes the cover1204 from the base 1206, as described. The user places the toothbrush100 in the base 1206 such that the brush head 102 and a portion of thestem 104 fits within the boundaries provided by the bristle wall 1602,the brush head wall 1604, and the stem wall 1606. The user attaches thecover 1204 to the base 1206 to secure the toothbrush 100 in the dock1202. In some embodiments, the cover 1204 includes surfaces similar tothe bristle wall 1602, the brush head wall 1604, and the stem wall 1606for additional securement of the toothbrush 100. In some embodiments,the cover 1204 does not include additional surfaces, and the toothbrush100 is secured by the bristle wall 1602, the brush head wall 1604, andthe stem wall 1606, in combination with the cover 1204.

Referring to FIG. 17, an illustration of dock 1700 is shown, accordingto another embodiment. The dock 1700 is configured to store or securethe toothbrush 100 and the appliance brush 320 when the toothbrush 100is being transported to protect and more easily transport the toothbrush100 and the appliance brush 320. The dock 1700 includes a cover shell1702, a cover 1704, a base 1706, a magnet cover 1702, and a magnet 1708.The cover shell 1702, cover 1704, and base 1706 are manufactured fromany material suitable for storing the toothbrush 100 and/or theappliance brush 320 (e.g., plastic, metal, or any other suitablematerial). The cover shell 1702 may be releasably coupled to the cover1704, in some embodiments; however, the cover shell 1702 may also becoupled to the cover 1704 such that the cover 1704 cannot be removedfrom the cover shell 1702. In embodiments where the cover shell isreleasably coupled to the cover 1704, the coupling mechanism can be anycoupling mechanism that provides the ability to connect componentssecurely when desired, and to easily disconnect when desired. Examplesof suitable coupling mechanisms include a bayonet connection and athreaded connection. The cover 1704 may be releasably coupled to thebase 1706. The coupling mechanism can be any coupling mechanism thatprovides the ability to connect components securely when desired, and toeasily disconnect when desired. Examples of suitable coupling mechanismsinclude a bayonet connection and a threaded connection. The cover 1704may also be rotatable with respect to the base 1706 such that theorientation of the cover 1704 can be modified as desired by a user.

The cover shell 1702 includes an opening 1718, and the cover 1704includes a recess 1720 and a magnetic contact portion 1722. The opening1718 is an aperture located in the cover shell 1702 such that thetoothbrush 100 can be inserted into the recess 1720 to be stored in anupright position when the dock 1700 is positioned on a horizontalsurface.

The base 1706 is configured to secure the magnetic cover 1702, and themagnetic cover 1702 is configured to secure the magnet 1708. The magnet1708 can be any type of magnet of strength sufficient to secure thetoothbrush 100 to the dock 1700 when the dock 1700 is in a verticalposition and to prevent the toothbrush 100 from slipping from the dock1700. Examples of the magnet 1708 include, but are not limited to,aluminum-iron-cobalt-nickel (“alnico”) magnets, neodymium magnets,samarium cobalt magnets, ferrite magnets, bonded magnets, and any othertype of magnet suitable for the application. In some embodiments, themagnetic cover is secured to the cover 1704 such that the magnet 1708 iscloser in proximity to the magnetic portion 1722 to provide for astronger magnetic force at the magnetic portion 1722 than if the magnet1708 is secured in the base 1706.

The base 1706 further includes a brush head cavity 1716 and an appliancebrush cavity 1714. The brush head cavity 1716 is sized and configured tosecure the brush head 102 in between the base 1706 and the cover 1704such that the brush head 100 is secured and protected. The appliancebrush cavity 1714 is sized and configured to secure the appliance brush320 in between the base 1706 and the cover 1704 such that the appliancebrush 320 is secured and protected. In some embodiments, the base 1706includes apertures through which liquid from the brush head 102 and/orthe appliance brush 320 can flow (e.g., flow out of the dock 1700).

The base 1706 also includes one or more sponge 1712. The sponge 1712 iscoupled to the underside of the base 1706 such that the sponge 1712supports the base 1706 on the surface on which the base 1706 is placed.The sponge 1712 can be reusable such that the sponge 1712 can beattached to, and removed, from various surfaces to secure the dock 1700to various surfaces. In some embodiments where the ability of the sponge1712 to adhere to the desired surface is diminished, the adhesiveproperties of the sponge may be restored by washing the sponge 1712 withwater.

The dock 1700 can be coupled to a horizontal surface using the sponge1712 such that the dock 1700 remains stationary with respect to thehorizontal surface. To store the toothbrush 100 in the dock 1700, theuser inserts the handle 108 into the recess 1720, and the recess 1720provides support for the toothbrush 100 such that the toothbrush 100remains in an upright position.

The dock 1700 can be coupled to a vertical surface using the sponge 1712such that the dock 1700 remains stationary with respect to the verticalsurface. In some embodiments, the user may install the dock 1700 on thevertical surface such that the magnetic portion 1722 is notsubstantially vertical (e.g., within 10 degrees of vertical). In suchembodiments, the user can rotate the cover 1704 with respect to the base1706 such that the magnetic portion is substantially vertical. To storethe toothbrush 100 in a vertical position, the user places the handle108 on the magnetic portion 122 such that the magnet 1708 provides anattractive force between the magnet 1708 and the handle 108 and/or theinternal components of the toothbrush 100 (e.g., the battery 312 and/orother internal components).

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of thesystems, apparatuses, and methods shown in the various exemplaryembodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any element disclosed inone embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodimentdisclosed herein. For example, any of the exemplary embodimentsdescribed in this application can be incorporated with any of the otherexemplary embodiment described in the application. Although only oneexample of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated orutilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should beappreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may beincorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosedherein.

Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order ofmethod steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depictedand described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or moresteps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unlessspecified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, onthe software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. Allsuch variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise,software implementations of the described methods could be accomplishedwith standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and otherlogic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps,comparison steps, and decision steps.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,”“above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of variouselements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation ofvarious elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments,and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the presentdisclosure.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,”and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony withthe common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art towhich the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should beunderstood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure thatthese terms are intended to allow a description of certain featuresdescribed and claimed without restricting the scope of these features tothe precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms shouldbe interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequentialmodifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimedare considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited inthe appended claims.

The term “or,” as used herein, is used in its inclusive sense (and notin its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements,the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,”unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to convey that anelement may be either X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z(i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive languageis not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require atleast one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each bepresent, unless otherwise indicated.

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means thejoining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Suchjoining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g.,removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the twomembers coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled toeach other using a separate intervening member and any additionalintermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two memberscoupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrallyformed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If“coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term(e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” providedabove is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term(e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without anyseparate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition thanthe generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may bemechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a toothbrush headcomprising a stem, the toothbrush head configured to brush teeth; a bodyreleasably coupled with the toothbrush head, the body comprising avibration component, an element, and an extension, the vibrationcomponent configured to vibrate the toothbrush head, the elementconfigured to operate the vibration component, the extension configuredto be at least substantially covered by the stem when the toothbrushhead is coupled with the body; and an appliance brush interchangeablewith the toothbrush head and configured to brush a dental appliance;wherein the appliance brush is configured to couple to a tip of theextension when the toothbrush head is not coupled with the body, andwherein the extension is substantially exposed when the appliance brushis coupled to the tip of the extension.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the appliance brush comprises appliance bristles coupled to abase, the appliance bristles comprising a plurality of tufts ofdifferent lengths, the plurality of tufts arranged to form a convexbrushing surface.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the appliancebristles are arranged in a circular shape.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3,wherein the convex brushing surface is asymmetrical.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the convex brushing surface is symmetrical.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a dock configured to hold thebody while either of the toothbrush head or the appliance brush iscoupled with the body.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising adock configured to store the appliance brush when the appliance brush isdecoupled from the body.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the dockcomprises an aperture configured to enable liquid to exit the dock. 9.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the toothbrush head comprises abristle, a massager, and a scrubber.
 10. A system comprising: atoothbrush head comprising a bristle, a massager, a scrubber, and astem, the stem extending from the toothbrush head; a body releasablycoupled with the stem by an extension of the body, the body alsocomprising a vibration component and an element, the vibration componentconfigured to vibrate the toothbrush head, the element configured tooperate the vibration component, the extension configured to be at leastsubstantially covered by the stem when the toothbrush head is coupledwith the body; an appliance brush interchangeable with the toothbrushhead and configured to brush a dental appliance; and a dock operable tobe releasably coupled with the body or the toothbrush head, the dockcomprising a compartment configured to store the appliance brush whenthe appliance brush is decoupled from the body; wherein the appliancebrush is configured to couple to a tip of the extension when thetoothbrush head is not coupled with the body, and wherein the extensionis substantially exposed when the appliance brush is coupled to the tipof the extension.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the dock comprisesa cover releasably coupled to a base, the cover and the base defining anopening configured to receive a portion of the stem.
 12. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the base comprises a bristle wall, a brush head wall,and a stem wall, and wherein a space between the brush head wall and thebristle wall is configured to receive the toothbrush head.
 13. Thesystem of claim 12, wherein the space between the brush head wall andthe stem wall is configured to receive a portion of the stem.
 14. Thesystem of claim 13, wherein the toothbrush head is secured in the spacewhen the cover is coupled to the base.
 15. The system of claim 11,wherein the cover comprises a recess configured to receive the body suchthat when the body is placed in the recess, the body is held in avertical position.
 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the basecomprises a securing component operable to releasably secure the base toan at least substantially smooth surface.
 17. The system of claim 16,wherein the cover comprises a magnetic portion operable to be releasablycoupled to the body.
 18. The system of claim 10, wherein the appliancebrush comprises appliance bristles coupled to a base, the appliancebristles comprising a plurality of tufts of different lengths, theplurality of tufts arranged to form a convex brushing surface.
 19. Anelectronic brush comprising: an appliance brush comprising a connectorand bristles, the bristles arranged in a first pattern such that thebristles form a convex brushing surface; a body configured to releasablycouple with the appliance brush by the connector or with a toothbrushhead comprising bristles arranged in a second pattern and a stem, thebody comprising a vibration component configured to vibrate theappliance brush and an extension configured to be at least substantiallycovered by the stem when the toothbrush head is coupled with the body;and a dock configured to secure the body, the dock comprising a cavitydisposed between a cover and a base, the cavity configured to store theappliance brush when the appliance brush is decoupled from the body;wherein the appliance brush is configured to couple to a tip of theextension when the toothbrush head is not coupled with the body, andwherein the extension is substantially exposed when the appliance brushis coupled to the tip of the extension.
 20. The electronic brush ofclaim 19, wherein the bristles of the appliance brush are arranged in acircular shape.
 21. The electronic brush of claim 19, wherein the convexbrushing surface is asymmetrical.
 22. The electronic brush of claim 19,wherein the convex brushing surface is symmetrical.